Scott Hamilton: “I Am Second”

When you find yourself in a situation like the one I’m in — a cancer diagnosis; a very serious cancer diagnosis — I don’t care who you are. You can’t help but ask the question: Why, God? Why me?

Each of us faces struggles in life; often, more than one. And we wonder. And we try to make sense of it. And we wait to see if an answer will come.

Sometimes, oftentimes I believe, it does. It could be right away. Or it could take months or even years.

Then one day, we get it. We really get it.

My niece Danielle Neilson shared this video of Olympic Gold Medalist Scott Hamilton with me the other day. It is so compelling that I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it, and I wanted to share it with you.

It’s hard to believe there could be a gift hidden in the midst of some of the toughest battles we face in life. But then again, perhaps it’s hard not to believe that.

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17 responses

2022012

Kathy Oconnor Crawfis(10:15:50) :

Wow…what a powerful message. Mom and I were just saying how we need to have faith and give our problems to God and trust that his path for us is already written, we just need to follow. Scott is an amazing man, but you, Amy, are an amazing woman, mother, wife, friend, sister, daughter, author and survivor. As my mother says every morning, “I offer this day up to you, Lord, whatever your wish be done.” Keep the faith. Keep the fight. Love you.

Loved watching Scott skate when I was growing up. He inspired so many on the ice and now inspires so many with his story, his sense of humor and faith. Wonderful testimony from him! There is a path for everyone……

We have not met but I have been reading your blogs and look forward to your updates.

You are a true inspiration and you have helped me through my own battles. Everytime it feels like I can’t get through the day I receive an update from you. Your positive words during this difficult time in your life has given me strength and hope. You are a strong, brave woman and the world is a better place for having you.

I look forward to the day I receive an email from you and the title is CANCER FREE!

For years, I wished i hadn’t been born into a family with a strong history of cancer. When I learned about my BRCA mutation, I wished it could be gone. I considered it a defect, a part of me I wished I could erase. And truthfully, if the opportunity came along to somehow correct it, I would jump at that opportunity in a moment.

But one day, while reading The Purpose Driven Life, I realized that God created me like this. For whatever reason, God created me — and you — with a BRCA mutation. I don’t know why, and I don’t how it fits into His larger plan, but I believe it’s there for a reason. Scott asks, “Who would I be without a brain tumor?” and I know that it’s just as true to ask, “Who would I — who would my family be — without a family history of breast cancer?” Yes, cancer has taken the lives of some wonderful women. But it’s also created some gloriously strong women, some women who care selflessly and compassionately for others. I don’t know the whole tapestry, but I have to believe that there’s a reason.

As for you, my inspiring friend, never, ever underestimate the influence and effect you have on others. The world is a much, much, MUCH better place because of your existence, and I’m so grateful that I had the chance to meet you in person at least once.

Awesome video and so inspiring! I love the line “The only real disability in life is a bad attitude.” Thank you for sharing! BTW, Holly Smith and I are doing the Michigan 3-Day Aug. 17-19, 2012 and putting your name on our shirts! Hang in there! We are trying to help find the cure!

Amazing video Amy! I am not Christian, but I am a cancer survivor at this time, and I can so relate to needing to understand that this disease does not have to just be a terrible thing that happens. I won’t say that I am glad that it has entered my life, but I will say that I have learned lessons about myself and the world around me as the result of my experience. They are lessons that only other cancer survivors can understand….kind of like being a parent. Until you have the experience, there is a depth of understanding that you cannot experience
You continue to amaze and inspire me. You are in my life. I meditate for your health every evening, and have a candle that has your name inscribed on it. Thank you for sharing your journey, for sharing this most intimate and complicated part of yourself.
Blessed Be little sister
Kim

Hi dear daughter…I LOVE to listen to Scott’s story. He is inspiring, as you are also. What amazing messages you give us Amy.
Now I want you to tell Donnie “hello and best wishes….you are A # 1.”
From Mom Reet